You might think of external hard drives simply as a means of storing your photos and documents. But did you know that they can be used for gaming too? If you’re a gamer looking for practical solutions or just curious, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide will help you explore the potential of using an external hard drive for gaming, and the pros and cons of doing so. You’ll learn how to optimize them for peak performance, and whether it’s possible to install games on them.
We’ll even recommend some of the best ones on the market specifically suited for gaming needs. So let’s get started — you’re about to discover a whole new world of gaming possibilities!
Key Takeaways
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface offers read/write speeds up to 1000MB/s, providing fast data transfer for gaming.
- The SE800 is a compact, portable, shock-resistant, and waterproof external SSD that is compatible with PC, Xbox One, PS4, and Mac.
- The Samsung T5 Portable SSD is small, lightweight, durable, and compatible with Xbox One, PS4, and Mac, offering read/write speeds up to 540MB/s.
- While external SSDs offer faster game loading times and smoother gameplay, they are pricier per GB compared to hard drives. However, hard drives are more affordable and offer more storage capacity. The choice between SSDs and hard drives depends on individual needs and budget.
External Hard Drives and Their Role in Gaming
You might be surprised to know that external hard drives can play a significant role in your gaming experience. They provide the much-needed space for storing and running your favorite PC games.
Essentially, they act as a storage extension to your primary system. This is especially useful when your internal storage starts to fill up.
Modern games often have large file sizes. If you’re an avid gamer with limited internal storage, investing in an external drive is a smart move. It ensures that your computer runs efficiently without getting bogged down by excessive data.
Furthermore, external hard drives are portable and straightforward to use. This means you can carry your game library wherever you go and play on different computers without the need for reinstallation or an internet connection.
Keep in mind, though, that while these drives are convenient for storing games, they may not offer the same performance speed as internal drives due to their slower read/write speeds.
So if gameplay speed is important to you, it’s best to run the game from an internal drive but store it externally when not in use.
Undoubtedly, external hard drives can be beneficial for gamers who need additional storage space or portability benefits.
Pros and Cons of Using External Hard Drives for Gaming
In the world of video game enthusiasts, almost 60% have explored the option of leveraging portable storage solutions for their gaming needs, and there are indeed benefits and drawbacks to this approach.
On the positive side, external hard drives provide an easy way to increase your system’s storage capacity. They’re ideal for storing large games that don’t fit on your main drive. Plus, they’re portable – you can take your games with you wherever you go.
However, there are also some disadvantages to using external hard drives for gaming. The biggest issue is speed.
External drives operate slower than internal ones, which could result in longer load times or even lag during gameplay if the game is particularly demanding. Also, there’s a risk of data loss if the drive gets damaged or lost.
While external hard drives offer a convenient solution for space issues on your gaming PC, make sure you consider these points before making a decision.
It’s essential to find a balance between convenience and performance when aiming for an optimal gaming experience. Don’t forget to keep backups of your valuable games as well!
How to Optimize Your External Hard Drive for Gaming
Struggling with storage space or load times? Let’s look into optimizing that portable storage device to ensure a smoother, more enjoyable gameplay experience.
Choose an external hard drive with a high-speed connection. USB 3.0 and above can give the data transfer speed you need for gaming. If your PC supports it, Thunderbolt connections are even faster.
Next, consider the drive’s RPM (rotations per minute). The higher the RPM, the faster your games will load. Aim for a minimum of 7200 RPM.
Now that you have your hardware sorted out, let’s move on to software optimization. Make sure that your game files are defragmented regularly. This improves read/write speeds by arranging data in a continuous sequence on the disk.
Also, ensure that only necessary files are stored on your external hard drive – clutter can slow down performance. Organize and store non-gaming related files elsewhere.
Optimization doesn’t end there though – always keep an eye on available space as running low can cause slowdowns too. Regularly check how much room is left and delete old or unused games when needed.
By following these steps diligently and maintaining good practices, you’ll find gaming from your external hard drive becomes smoother over time without any issues or glitches getting in the way of fun!
CAN I INSTALL GAMES ON AN EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE?
Believe it or not, you can install games on an external hard drive. It’s a great way to free up space on your computer’s internal drive and prevent high-demanding titles from slowing down your system.
The process is straightforward. When downloading a game, simply select the external hard drive as the installation location. Most gaming platforms like Steam or Origin allow this without any issues.
And don’t worry about performance – modern USB 3.0 and 3.1 connections are fast enough to run games smoothly.
However, there are some considerations to bear in mind. Not all games will run well on an external hard drive. Some may experience slower loading times due to data transfer rates that aren’t as fast as internal SSDs.
Take these factors into account when deciding whether to use an external hard drive for gaming. If done correctly, it can give you more flexibility with your game library while keeping your PC uncluttered and running efficiently.
HOW TO INSTALL GAMES ON EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE
Feeling bogged down by a cluttered computer? Here’s a simple solution: let’s learn how to install those amazing games straight onto your portable storage device!
The process is easier than you think, and it can give your computer much needed space.
Here are the basic steps:
- Step 1: Connect your external hard drive to your PC.
- Make sure it has enough space for the game you want to install.
- It should be recognized automatically by your operating system.
- Step 2: Start installing your game.
- Choose ‘Custom Installation’ when prompted.
- Select the connected external hard drive as the installation location.
- Step 3: Wait for the game to install.
- This may take longer than installing on an internal drive due to data transfer speeds.
Once everything is set up, you’ll be able to play games directly from your external hard drive. Keep in mind that performance might not be as smooth compared to running games from an internal SSD.
But don’t worry! With a good quality external hard drive, this difference will not affect your gaming experience.
So what are you waiting for? Start enjoying uncluttered gaming now!
Best External Hard Drives for Gaming
When it comes to gaming, not all external hard drives are created equal. You’re going to want a drive that offers high-speed performance and reliability.
Some great options to consider are the WD My Passport Portable External HDD or the more robust WD Black Portable External SSD.
If you’re after extreme speed and durability, then the ADATA SE800 External SSD or Samsung T5 Portable SSD might just be what your gaming setup needs.
1. WD My Passport Portable External HDD
Sure, the WD My Passport Portable External HDD isn’t just compact and stylish, it’s also a reliable choice for storing PC games. It comes with plenty of storage space which means you can keep all your favorite games handy without worrying about your PC slowing down.
Here are three reasons why this external hard drive is great for gaming:
- It offers high-speed data transfer rates. This ensures your games load quickly, so no more long wait times.
- Its automatic backup software keeps your game data safe and secure.
- Plus, it’s durable. Even if you take your gaming on the go, it’ll handle a few bumps and bruises.
So yes, you can absolutely run PC games with an external hard drive like the WD My Passport!
2. WD Black Portable External SSD
Switching gears, let’s dive into the world of the WD Black Portable SSD.
This external SSD is a powerhouse when it comes to gaming. Its fast data transfer capabilities will make your games load quicker than ever before. The convenient design also means you can take your games with you wherever you go without any difficulty.
The WD Black Portable SSD comes with a massive storage capacity, allowing you to store dozens of PC games and their saves.
It’s compatible with most gaming consoles and PCs, so you won’t face any issues getting set up. Plus, it’s robust and shock-resistant; occasional drops or knocks won’t be an issue.
So yes, this external SSD is not just good for gaming – it’s excellent! You’ll experience smoother gameplay and rapid loading times like never before.
3. ADATA SE800 External SSD
Looking for a top-tier solid-state drive? The ADATA SE800 SSD is a great option, offering incredible speed and portability. With USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, you’ll get read/write speeds of up to 1000MB/s. This means games will load quickly, so you won’t be left waiting.
The SE800 isn’t just about speed though; its compact size makes it ideal for portable use. Plus, it’s shock-resistant and waterproof, so you can rest assured that your data will be safe.
It’s also compatible with multiple platforms including PC, Xbox One, PS4, and Mac. So no matter what device you’re gaming on, this external SSD has you covered.
4. Samsung T5 Portable SSD
If speed and durability are at the top of your list, the Samsung T5 Portable SSD could be just the device for you. It is not only conveniently small and lightweight for effortless portability, but it also boasts excellent read/write speeds that guarantee quick game loading times.
This SSD is suitable with a variety of platforms including Xbox One, PS4, and Mac, offering a comprehensive solution for your gaming needs.
Here is a concise overview of its key features:
| Feature | Description | Benefit for Gamers |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 540 MB/s transfer speed | Faster game loading times |
| Compatibility | Works with PC, Mac, Xbox One & PS4 | Wide range of usage |
| Portability | Weighs only 51 grams with pocket-size design | Easy to carry around |
| Security | Optional password protection and AES 256-bit hardware encryption | Keeps data secure |
Therefore, if you are looking for a gaming storage solution that is both fast and convenient, the Samsung T5 could be the ideal option.
External SSDs vs External Hard Drives for Gaming
You may be wondering which type of external drive is better for gaming – an SSD or a hard drive. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
An external SSD offers faster read and write speeds compared to a hard drive, resulting in quicker game loading times, smoother gameplay, and less waiting.
However, SSDs are usually pricier per GB than traditional hard drives. So if cost is a factor and you need plenty of storage, a hard drive could be the better option. It can store a lot of games without going over budget.
Longevity is another point to consider. While both types of drives can fail over time, SSDs tend to have longer lifespans because they have no moving parts that can become worn out.
So what’s the verdict? That depends on your gaming needs and budget. If speed and performance are your top priorities, go with an SSD. But if you want a lot of storage at an affordable price, a hard drive might be the way to go.
Either way, you can run PC games effectively; it’s just a matter of finding the right balance for your situation.
Conclusion
Are external hard drives good for gaming? Can you run PC games with them?
Absolutely! You can run games off an external hard drive. Think of your PC as a busy chef, and having an external hard drive is like having an extra pair of hands in the kitchen. It’s not just about storage; it’s also about speed and performance.
With some careful optimization, your gaming experience could be better than ever. Just remember, not all hard drives are the same. So, choose wisely for your next gaming adventure!
